The recent move to repeal the blenders tax credit for ethanol producers may not have any immediate impact, but it could mean an opening for a larger debate about energy and spending.

Brian Peterson, Associate Economics Professor at Central College says while the vote was largely symbolic, it gets politicians on record regarding their stance on supporting alternative energy industries.

He says the question moving forward is whether or not the industry can stand on its own without government assistance.

Peterson
says the impact to grain producers wouldn’t likely be that significant, as there are many markets for corn besides fuels.